Army denies abduction of travellers on Damaturu-Buni Yadi-Biu road

The Nigeria Atmy has denied reports that an unspecified numbers of travellers were abducted along the Damaturu-Buni Yadi-Biu road yesterday. Spokesman of Sector 2, Operation Lafiya Dole, Damaturu, Lt. Njoka Irabor, in a statement made available to journalists in Damaturu today, said the reports by some online media platforms (not The Nation Newspaper) only exist in the imagination of the reporter, just as he maintained that the news is fake and misleading.

The statement encourages journalist to always cross-check facts with relevant security agencies before going public. The statement reads; “The attention of Headquarters Sector 2, Operation LAFIYA DOLE, was drawn to fake news on Vanguard newspaper website and other social media platforms alleging that suspected Boko Haram terrorists abducted unspecified passengers plying Biu-Damaturu road yesterday. This is not true as there is no such incidence in the north east, let alone in the mentioned road.

“What the medium misconstrued was that, as part of our routine measures to curb the criminal  activities of Boko Haram terrorists  and ensure safety and security of all residents and commuters, troops carry out routine patrols, checks and ambushes. This often necessitated the temporary closure of the roads. What happened in morning of 1st February 2019 was that there was reported suspected movement of Boko Haram  terrorists and the troops swung into action.

“In order to avoid likely collateral damages, the troops temporarily halted vehicles movement. However, the road was immediately reopened after the routine military operation. Members of the public and the good people of Yobe state, particularly motorist and travelers plying that route, are to discountenance the report and go about their lawful daily activities, as our troops are working round the clock to ensure the protection of lives and property of members of the public, especially on our roads.”